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How to become a Surgical Technician

To work as a surgical technician, the following may be required of you:

  1. Start by earning a high school diploma or GED.
  2. Earn an associate's degree through a community college or vocational school that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CCAHEP).
  3. Though most employers will not require a certification, surgical technicians may go ahead to earn certification from a body recognized by the Bureau of Labor Statistics like the National Board of Surgical Technology.
  4. Surgical technicians may have to fulfill the specific requirements of states where they want to work.
How to become: Operating Room Technician · Scrub Tech · Technician · Anesthesia Technician · Surgical Assistant
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Typical qualifications for a Surgical Technician

14/15
Your Indeed Profile has 14 of the 15 qualifications typically needed to be a Surgical Technician.
Indeed users who have worked as a Surgical Technician typically have these qualifications.
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Skills employers are looking for


Note this is provided for informational purposes only. Adding qualifications does not guarantee a job interview, opportunity, or an offer.
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Surgical Technician jobs in United States

Lake Charles Memorial Health System3.3
Lake Charles, LA
Full-time
View job details
4 hours ago
Texas Memorial Hospital
Houston, MO
1 day ago
North Central Methodist Ambulatory Surgery Center
San Antonio, TX
Full-time
4 hours ago
Sanford Health3.4
Fargo, ND
$21.50 - $29.00 an hour
3 days ago
TriHealth Inc.3.6
United States
4 hours ago
View all Surgical Technician jobs

Career progression for Surgical Technician

Education levels for Surgical Technicians

Based on the requirements of Surgical Technician job openings on Indeed in the United States within the last three years.
required level of educationpercent of job openings
Associate's degree3.0%
High school diploma or GED2.0%
Bachelor's degree1.0%
Master's degree0.0%
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Expected salary by experience

Based on resume data from Indeed users who reported working as a Surgical Technician in the United States within the last three years.
Years of experienceAnnual salary in USD
0 - 4$39,500
4 - 8$42,200
8 - 12$43,000
12 - 16$45,900
16 - 20$46,900
20 - 24$48,800
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Common questions about career advices for a Surgical Technician

What kind of skills should a surgical technician have?

Surgical technicians rely on a combination of:

  • Technical skills, such as surgical procedure processes and technology, patient care, aseptic technique and CPR training
  • Soft skills, such as active listening skills, communication skills and critical thinking and organizational skills
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How can surgical technicians advance their career?

Surgical technicians can further their careers by becoming specialized in areas like tissue repair, organ transplants or reconstructive surgery. Advancement to the role of first assistant is also possible after completing some additional training.

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How do surgical technicians keep their certifications updated?

As of 2020, surgical technicians are required by law to renew their certifications every two years and complete 30 hours of continuing education (CE) during each renewal cycle.

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How long does it take to complete the surgical technician programs?

Can you become a surgical technician without a degree?

What other jobs can surgical technicians do?

How do I become a surgical technician?

Can you take surgical technician programs online?

Can I become a surgical technician with no experience?

Do surgical technicians work part time?

Can a surgical technician become a surgeon?

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